Last week, the King County Council had a hearing about a recent audit of 36 Department of Community and Human Services’ (DCHS) contracts, which uncovered improper payments, including potential fraud, across multiple contracts and showed that a lack of oversight exposed the county to significant financial risk.
As elected officials, we are stewards of public dollars and public trust — these responsibilities are paramount and must be central to our oversight of how taxpayer dollars are spent. I am proud to cosponsor legislation to strengthen oversight and transparency for our contracts. In addition, we must establish clear and accountable safeguards for all contracts, provide meaningful support and oversight to community organizations, ensure transparency in how contracts are awarded and monitored, and implement consistent standards across all programs.
Small businesses are the core of our economy and our communities. To help small businesses thrive, OneEastside is holding office hours every month to provide no-cost business advising. Drop by to get insight, support, and fresh ideas! They will be at Kirkland City Hall every second Wednesday of the month from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and at Redmond City Hall every second Tuesday of the month from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
It’s hard to talk about suicide, but silence and isolation only provide the space for despair to thrive. September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and spark meaningful action.
If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor at the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any day, any time.
NAMI Eastside is an amazing resource for anyone looking for help with their own mental health or a loved one’s. This month, they are hosting several events to educate the community about how to support someone going through a mental health challenge.
On Sunday, September 7 and Wednesday, September 10, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, you can join them in Redmond for Adult Mental Health First Aid Certification at Together Center. Learn how to recognize the signs, provide support, and connect people to help.
On Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00 PM, join “Prepared to Care”, a free community workshop at the Good Samaritan Episcopal Church in Sammamish, another opportunity to learn how to spot the signs of a mental health or substance use challenge, what to say, and how to offer support and resources.
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